The remote village of Aomori nestled amidst pristine mountains and lush forests, once thrived on traditional agriculture. However, dwindling population due to emigration to urban areas, coupled with the aging farming community, threatened the village's unique culinary heritage and delicate ecosystem. The primary agricultural product, the rare Aomori apple, renowned for its sweetness and crispness, faced a critical challenge. Maintaining the apple orchards required intensive labor, a resource becoming increasingly scarce. Furthermore, the traditional farming methods, while preserving the land's biodiversity, lacked the efficiency to compete with large-scale commercial farming. Concerned villagers, led by young entrepreneur Kenji Tanaka, devised a comprehensive plan to revitalize their community. Their strategy incorporated three key pillars: promoting sustainable agriculture, fostering community-supported agriculture (CSA) schemes, and educating the public about the importance of ecological preservation. Sustainable agriculture involved the adoption of innovative techniques such as precision irrigation and natural pest control, minimizing chemical use and preserving soil health. This not only improved the quality and yield of the Aomori apples but also reduced the environmental impact of farming. Simultaneously, Kenji and his team initiated a CSA program, directly connecting local farmers with consumers in urban centers. This guaranteed a steady market for the Aomori apples and ensured fair prices for the farmers, combating the economic challenges faced by the shrinking agricultural sector. Finally, to create awareness of their unique ecosystem and traditional farming practices, they established an educational farm and visitor center. Through workshops, guided tours, and interactive exhibits, they demonstrated the connection between food production, environmental sustainability, and rural community vitality. This helped attract tourists, generating income and promoting appreciation for their heritage. Today, the village of Aomori stands as a testament to the power of community engagement and innovative solutions. By successfully integrating ecological sustainability with economic viability and cultural preservation, they provide a model for other rural communities struggling with similar challenges.
1. What was the main challenge faced by the village of Aomori?
2. What is the central theme of the passage concerning the relationship between agriculture and the environment?
3. How did the establishment of the educational farm and visitor center contribute to the village's revitalization?
4. Which of the following best describes Kenji Tanaka's role in the village's revitalization?